Expat Life in Bonn

Bonn Remix vs. Luxumburg

2011-07-14T23:05:00.000-07:00

Shout out: Bonn - Remix!

Will miss you guys! Keep on playing the good game.

Camaraderie of Bonn Remix is quite touching.

Shoes for ebay? ;-p

Start of a game for the Bonn Remix.

Friends and coaches of Bonn Remix: Geoff Sanad, Eric Solana and Junior Tropel.

Second day of the basketball tournament held in Koeln found Bonn Remix competing against Luxumburg as their first game.

Second half of the game against Luxumburg.

Rheinaue Japanese Garden

2011-07-14T06:57:00.000-07:00

Image via Wikipedia

More than 25 years ago, the Government of Japan engaged the president of the Japanese landscape gardeners association, Dr. Akira Sato, to create a Japanese garden as a present and a contribution to the Federal Horticultural Show in 1979.

An impressive monument of Japanese horticultural art was created whose fascination has remained unchanged. Nature and harmony characterise the overall composition of the garden that is dominated by two water cascades, a small lake and a thirteen stage pagoda.

The great art of growing small trees is on exhibit annually at Whitsun (Saturday to Monday). The Bonsai-team Bonn organises a show of manifold exhibits of miniature trees within the precinct of this precious garden.

June 11, 2001 showcased a bonsai exhibit in the Japanese garden of Bonn Rheinauepark. Watch out for the next exhibit next year.

Championship Game: Bonn Remix vs. Wiesbaden Crossover

2011-07-07T08:48:00.000-07:00

Image via Wikipedia

Final game of the two day All-Filipino Basketball tournament held in Koeln last July 2 and 3, 2011 found Bonn Remix competing against Wiesbaden Crossover. It was a tight game with Bonn Remix emerging one again as the victor. The third championship trophy for this group.

Second half of the championship game.

Here is the championship ceremony and round robin pictures without the music background.

The same video above but with background music. Unfortunately only viewers outside Germany can view this. Certain legalities about copyright so it seems.

Bonn Remix vs. AM Pinoy

2011-07-04T03:30:00.000-07:00

Its getting warm and so is the season to do sports. This July, Barkada Köln hosted its first Filipino Basketball Tournament. It was well attended with 13 teams participating from all over Germany with Luxumberg also competing.

Bonn Remix, the defending champion from the last tournament held in Frankfurt made it again to the semi - finals. Unfortunately, the Formidable 10 was not complete. Aaron Salangsang played with his home team Wuppertals. Sad to say, his team wasn´t able to survive the knock-out selection.

Here is the video of the game Bonn Remix played against AM Pinoy, the military group that was the former team of Peejay Barrientos.

Second half of the semi final game.

Expats in International Fest

2011-06-27T14:15:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday`s International Fest (Begegnungs Festival) in Rheinaue Bonn was successful despite the continuous rain. There was quite a lot of turn out though the festivities started late noon. Rain or shine, food, culture and fun was able to find its way in the midst of drizzle.

Here are some pictures showcasing international spirit.

The formal opening of the culture show started at 12noon with the International Protestant Community rendering a song.

Minimum of four booths were from the local Filipino community all offering delectable Pinoy dishes.

Of course our very own Saint Tomas More English Catholic Community with booth number 26 provided craft activities for kids.

Expat and Azkals in Bonn

2011-06-19T13:45:00.000-07:00

On Friday, the 17th June 2011, the U19 Junior of Bonner SC met the Philippine Azkals team for a friendly game. Play was at 19:00 clock in 53347 Alfter, Strangheidgesweg Entrance costs 4, - € or reduced 2, - €.Erich Rutemöller, a member of the Board of Directors of the newly occupied Bonner SC, has taught the opponent Bonner SC.

The Philippine national team is preparing in Germany for the 29 June preliminary round in SriLanka. This is part of their two week training that is being supervised by the German national team coach Michael White. The Azkals currently has a training camp based in Düren.

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International Fest in Bonn

2011-06-13T12:50:00.000-07:00

International Festival in Bonn showcases number of surprises. Image by devnull.

Image by Ecazi via Flickr

Marsmallow grilling! Yummy: ;-)

In 2011, the city of Bonn, the International and Intercultural cultural and community celebrates in the leisure park. The theme "International Meeting" and "Day of the intercultural encounter" was successfully combined for the first time in last 2010.The festival presents a colorful stage show as well as stands of international and intercultural groups, initiatives, associations, national companies and migrant organizations. As part of the stage program for integration of the Integration Council is an awarded prize.

When: June 25, 2011

Where: Rheinaue Park

Time: 12 bis 21 Uhr

Catalog: Click Here

Different foods from different countries will be presented and can be bought as well. Gift items and special treats are a norm in every booth.

This is a yearly spectacle that I love to visit. mainly due to the abundance of Filipino foods on sale and to see other products from different countries as well.

Expat Events: June 10 - June 15, 2011

2011-06-10T12:41:00.000-07:00

Cover of Lulu (Nick Hern Books Drama Classics)

June 10, 2011 (Friday)

The Philippine Football team "The Azkals" will compete at Sportpark Nord in Auerberg Bonn, 6pm.

June 11, 2011 (Saturday)

Bonn. "Der Wildshütz oder Ein unmoralishes Angebot", Comedy Opera in drei Akten from Albert Lortzing, Opernhaus Bonn, AM Boeselagerhof 1, 19.30Uhr.

Bonn - Bad Godesberg. "Lulu" von Frank Wedekind, Kammerspiele Bad Godesberg, Am Michaelshof 9, 19.30Uhr (also on Monday).

June 12, 2011 (Sunday)

Bonn. "Elefantenreich", Sonntagsführung durch die Austellung, LVR Landesmuseum, Colmannstarße 14 - 16, 11Uhr. From 15 to 17 Uhr: Kindernachmittag mit führung, Workshop und Basteln an animal face mask. Register at 02234 / 9921 555.

Bonn - Bad Godesberg. "Eine Abenteuerliche Kreuzfahrt", Komödie von Mary Jane Cruise, Kleines Theater Bad Godesberg, Koblenzer Str 78, 20 Uhr (also on Wed).

June 13, 2011 (Monday)

Bonn. "Elefantenreich", Sonntagsführung durch die Austellung, LVR Landesmuseum, Colmannstarße 14 - 16, 11Uhr.

June 14, 2011 (Tuesday)

Bonn. "Gap!", Conzert with Jean Faure and Orchestra, Pantheon, Bundeskanzlerplatz 2 - 10, 20Uhr.

June 15, 2011 (Wednesday)

Bonn - Beuel: "Trust" nach Motiven von Falk Richter, mit dem Theater Allyouneed, Theatersaal der Brotfabrik, Kreuzstraße 16, 20Uhr.

Tropang Bonn vs. Frankfurt Thunders (2010)

2011-06-05T12:08:00.000-07:00

There will be no long commentary here for this happened a year ago. In essence of blogging and to free space in my video HD, I would like to post this and the rest of old basketball videos. Sharing memories is more fun than keeping them locked up in a chest box.

Essen Community arranged a Filipino basketball tournament May last year (2010). Tropang Bonn as well as Bonn Remix participated thus having 2 teams representing Bonn. What`s nice about this tournament is that family members of the team were able to join the mini "excursion" to cheer on.

Mustard Seed in Kapellenweg

2011-06-04T10:36:00.000-07:00

Have you ever heard of the parable of the Mustard Seed? Faith was analogized as thus. Just a meager mustard seed and yet it produces astonishing results. This is the hidden symbol of faith in Rüngsdorf.

This chapel seats only 4-6 people and yet has a number of patrons visiting it everyday.

Marmor (Marble) gravings on the walls marks number of wishes granted. Most of them dating in 1800`s.

A little shrine to the faithful and a good meditating place for the lost and confused.

This sweet humble chapel is situated in the middle of the juncture connecting Rolandstrasse and Kapellenweg. It is walking distance from Rhein River and a good landmark is the Rheinhotel Dreesen. Bus line 613 and 615 passes by Rüngsdorf with Römerplatz as the bus stop.

Spend a minute or two inside and light a candle. Bury your dead dreams and wish for a bigger star. But don`t wish to come back for once you achieve inner peace, you need to move on.

You don`t need majestic cathedrals for God to hear you. Quality quiet time is all there is for you to hear his voice saying "..you knocked and I opened the door. You asked and I answered..."

All photos exclusive by expatlifeinbonn.

Swimming Pool Choices In Bonn

2011-06-03T09:52:00.000-07:00

Enjoying the water. Image by MatlockPhoto

Bonn has four indoor swimming pools, four open air swimming pools and one combined indoor/outdoor swimming pool. Furthermore, there is the swim training centre of Sportpark Nord entrusted to the swimming club ‘SSF Bonn’ equipped with a 50 meters pool and a teaching pool.

Frankenbad

Adolf Strasse 45, 53111 Bonn

Tel: 772 462, 772 463

Features: Sports, multi-purpose and teaching pool

Kurfürstenbad

Bad Godesberg
Kurfürstenallee 7a, 53177 Bonn
Tel. 353986/ 773278
Fax 3681171

Beueler Bütt

Beuel

Goetheallee 29-35, 53225 Bonn
Tel: 462253
Fax 9738293

Römerbad

Bonn-Castell
Eduard-Spoelgen-Straße 11
53117 Bonn
Tel.: 677611
Fax 6897625

Melbbad
Bonn-Poppelsdorf
Trierer Straße 59, 53115 Bonn
Tel.: 772461
Fax 2424416

Panoramabad

Rüngsdorf
Am Schwimmbad 8, 53179 Bonn
Tel: 331324
Fax 9527377

Freibad Friesdorf

Friesdorf
Margaretenstraße 14, 53175 Bonn
Tel.: 311150
Fax 3869548

Ennertbad, Pützchen

Pützchen
Holtdorfer Straße 40, 53229 Bonn
Tel: 482764
Fax 9480891

Hardtbergbad: Hallen- und Freibad und Kletterwald
Duisdorf

In der Dehlen
53125 Bonn
Tel.: 626218
Fax 6201372

E. Coli Scare in Germany

2011-05-30T13:21:00.000-07:00

Image via Wikipedia

Forefront in the news is the spread of E. Coli in and around Germany.

The world's biggest outbreak of a deadly form of E.coli bacteria has claimed another life as it continues to spread across Europe.

Health officials say the virus, believed to have originated from organic cucumbers imported from Spain , has killed 10 people and infected hundreds more in Germany.

Prolific cucumber. Image by oakleyoriginals

The epicentre of the outbreak has been in the country's north with more than 270 people contracting the disease in recent weeks - four times the normal annual figure of about 60.

Three cases have also been reported in Britain , a further 25 in Sweden and seven in Denmark.

In Austria there have been two cases, while the Netherlands and Switzerland have each had one suspected case.

All of the cases are understood to have been linked with travel to Germany.

Experts said the outbreak of hemolytic-uremic syndrome (HUS), which affects the blood, kidneys and, in severe cases, the nervous system, was the largest ever in Germany - and the biggest of its kind worldwide.

An 86-year-old woman was the latest victim of the bug after she died in the University Hospital Luebeck on Saturday.

Her husband is among about 70 patients being treated for the bacteria at the northern Germany hospital, whose doctors say they expect to see 10 new cases a day in the coming weeks.

Some of these products have been removed from shop shelves.

Hemolytic-uremic Syndrome

Usually occurs when digestive system infection produces toxic substances
Toxic substances destroy red blood cells and can cause kidney failure
Severe cases can cause failure of nervous system

What's for lunch? Image by erix!

As German media reported the number of people infected had risen to 1,200, Health Minister Daniel Bahr was preparing to hold emergency talks with Consumer Affairs Minister Ilse Aigner and regional state representatives to discuss the outbreak, officials said.

Meanwhile, the authorities in Schleswig-Holstein and Lower Saxony expect the number of seriously ill patients to rise, because it can take up to 10 days for symptoms of infection to appear, the news website Spiegel reported.

Doctors are pinning their hopes on Eculizumab, an antibody treatment that has worked in the past against HUS, correspondents say.

No more salads for the meantime. Image by laurelfan.

The head of the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), Germany's national disease institute, has warned people to avoid eating raw cucumbers, tomatoes and lettuce.

The sickness is not directly contagious but it can be transferred between people if an infected person prepares food for others.

Balloon Festival Expat Experience

2011-05-30T05:58:00.000-07:00

Entrance of the Festivities with Balloon Crane at the back. Image by expatlifeinbonn.

Saturday was the second day of the 3rd Balloon Festival here in Bonn held at the expansive field of Rheinaue. After a long day of Pilgrimage trip in Maastrict Netherlands, it was almost 9 in the evening when we touched down in Rheinaue. Laden with goods from our day trip, we joined in the fun of the day. Its late but barely twilight, still a number of family with their kids are engaged in the activities.

With the Check point and Info Center at the background.

A 10€ card will have 12 points allowing you to divide it among these choices.

A sample balloon.

Here is a video of our Balloon Crane experience. Hope you were able to do it as well. Much cheaper as compared to the real thing. 5€ per person or 6 points each.

A shot on the way on top of the balloon crane.

Model Balloons are being started up.

50 meters up in the sky.

The aerial view of the zorbing activity.

Dizzying view.

Post tower and UN tower on the horizon.

The man made lake of Rheinaue.

Feeling hungry after all the activities? Then head on the gastronomie area.

Walking off the model balloon.

See the balloon crane lift up!

A whole day of activities - Netherlands then straight to Rheinaue.

A cordoned area to prevent accidents.

Up!

Add caption

We joined the Schaufenster game for a chance to win 360€ ride for two in the Balloon Festival. The question was, what is right? Im Ballon fahren oder Im Ballon fliegen? - Unfortunately we didn't win.

So what is right? Im Ballon fahren oder Im Ballon fliegen?

Try zorbing to experience how it feels like to be a hamster.

We were at the autobahn driving from Köln to Bonn and this was what we saw high in the sky.

A day in Bonn. Looking forward to more activities.

We were supposed to watch the much anticipated Balloon Glow. Unfortunately, it was 10 pm and we have only seen 3 cars carting balloon baskets at their back. Most haven't come back yet from their flight rendezvous. Its late and most probably it will take time for them to set it up. Upon query at the information desk, they said Balloon Glow will commence at 11pm. Sad to say, we packed up and headed home. maybe next year when we didn't have much hectic day. We do hope you were able to see it though.

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Expat Bookworm: Stadtbibliothek

2011-05-29T03:49:00.000-07:00

University Bonn Library. Image by Library Mistress

Its normal to see lines of book shelves at home. Disadvantage is that we most often read a romance novel or such only once and then discard them in the shelf for dust to settle on. For practical reasons for a book lover, a library card is a must. Bonn boasts a number of well stocked libraries located all over the area.

Main Library in Bonn Center. Image by Library Mistress

Zentralbibliothek (Main Library)

Bottlerplatz 1, 53111 Bonn

Telefon: 0228 775755 and 775404

Bezirksbibliothek Bad Godesberg

Moltkestra?e 2 - 8, Lindeblock, 53173

Telefon: 0228 353897

Bezirksbibliothek Beuel

Friedrich - Breuer - Straße 17, Brückenform

53225 Bonn

Telefon: 0228 774780

Stadtteil und Gesamtschulbibliiothek Beuel - Ost

Siegburger Strße 321, 53229 Bonn

Telefon: 0228 774787

Stadtbibliothek Brüser Berg

Borsigallee 31, 53125 Bonn

Telefon: 0228 298763

Stadtteilbibliothek Dottendorf

Dottendorfer Straße 41, Ortzentrum

53129 Bonn

Telefon: 0228 236888

Stadtteilbibliothek Endenich

Am Burggaben 18, 53121 Bonn

Telefon: 0228 772320

Stadtteilbibliothek Rheindorf

Herseler Straße 3, 53117 Bonn

Telefon: 0228 772136

Stadtteilibliothek Tannenbusch

Oppelner Straße 128, 53119 Bonn

Telefon: 0228 665643

For the book lovers, you can just pop in and read on their wide selection of books, from Deutsch, English and even other Languages. Choices can be from books, to dvd's, audio cd's, Wii games, Playstation games, blu ray discs, game boards and even use of internet.

If you prefer to take home your pick, either pay a small amount for that or sign up and register. They also have their price list for registration. I have paid the yearly membership costing 30€ enabling me to borrow any number of selection (either book, cd, dvd, gameboards or audio cd etc).

Call the nearest Bibliothek (Library) near you to determine their opening hours. Most are open Monday, Wednesday to Saturday. Some have lunch break but the Zentralbibliothek doesn't have one.

Enjoy reading!

Expat in Theater Déjà vu

2011-05-29T02:41:00.000-07:00

Image via Wikipedia

We have seen a number of plays around Bonn. Here is another theater that boasts a number of performances these coming months of June to September, 2011.

Curtains before the play. Image by daskerts

June Guest Play

17.06 "Olga Knipper and Anton Tschechow - Eine Leidenschaftliche Liebe" Lesung

18.06 "Blues für Paul" Lieder und szenische Texte

24.06 "Der Vater des Glöckner von Notre Dame"

July

07./08.09. + 14. /15. / 16. 07

"Thelma und Louise" von Pamela Rittmeister

September

08. / 09. / 10. 09.

"Thelma und Louise" von Pamela Rittmeister

starting time 20Uhr

For other schedules and information, see www.theater-dejavu.de

Expat Badminton in Beuel

2011-05-29T02:14:00.000-07:00

All work and no play is not good for health. Mental or physical wise. Badminton being an indoor sports has long since been a favorite sports for the health buff. Although it can also be played in an outside court, it is quite frustrating with the wind changes and other environmental factors.

One establishment here in Bonn where badminton enthusiasts frequent is the Phoenix Badminton Center located at Pützchens Chaussee 202, 53229 Bonn.

This badminton center boasts six (6) badminton courts in 2 halls. All in all, 12 courts. It also has a dry sauna, tanning room (sonnenbank), and well equipped dressing and shower rooms. After a fun and sweaty game, you can have a snack or good meal in either their restaurant or beer garden.

Hall 1 and Hall 2 have different prices but you can both make use of them Monday to Friday from 9 in the morning to 23Uhr; and Saturdays and Sundays from 12Uhr to 22Uhr. Discounted prices are given to students and trainees. Price ranges from 8.50€ to 15€ depending on what hall you will use and the hour you will play. Walk ins are entertained and can make use of their facilities due to the wide number of choices. Use of Sauna is not inclusive to the price.

What we have noticed is that a lot of professional players train here. Beginners can watch and see them in action! If you have the guts, you can even challenge them in a play. The only disadvantage in my point of view is the location which is a little bit farther from the city center. All in all, if you want a new experience and see new techniques, better see this out for yourself.

If you want a safe play, make use of proper shoes so as to prevent injury. Some badminton hall prefers white or light soled shoes to prevent black streaks on their floor.

Sponsors can be seen posted in most of their walls.

Know your basic German words so as not to get lost inside the hall. ;-)

They also provide trainings for the young ones. If interested,contact the person above.

For more info:

Phoenix Badminton Center

Pützchens Chaussee 202, 53229 Bonn

Telefon: 0228 480451

Internet: www.badminton-center.de

Expat Events: May 27 - June 1, 2011

2011-05-26T12:23:00.000-07:00

Image via Wikipedia

It's almost the end of May and yet that's when the big events happen!

May 27 - 29, 2011

Balloon Festival in Rheinaue. May 27 starts at 6pm. May 28 from 11am to 10pm (Balloon Glow), May 29 from 11am to 6pm. Lots of fun for the whole family. See Balloon Festival in Bonn: May 27 - 29, 2011 article.

May 27, 2011 (Friday)

Bonn. "Jazz im Biergarten", Hot Jazz and New Orleans Jazz mit "Rod Masona nd His Hot Five", Parkrestaurant Rheinaue, 19.30Uhr, Entrance is Free.

Bonn - Bad Godesberg. "Lulu", from Frank Wedekind, Kammerspiele Bad Godesberg, Am Michaelshof 9, 19.30Uhr.

Bonn. "Kasimir und Karoline", voon Ödön von Horvath, Werkstattbühne in Opernhaus Bonn, Rheingasse 1, 20 Uhr.

Bonn. "Buchleins Bittere Beichte", von Peter Brandt, Theater der Pathologie, Weberstr. 43, 20 Uhr (also on Saturday).

Bonn Bad-Godesberg. "Eine Abenteuerliche Kreuzfahrt", Comedy von Maryjane Cruise, Kleines Theater Bad Godesberg, Koblenzer Str. 78, 20 Uhr.

Bonn Beuel. "Trust" nach Motiven von Falk Richter, with the Theater Alllyouneed, Theatersaal der brotfabrik, Kreuzstraße 16, 20Uhr.

May 28, 2011 (Saturday)

Pilgrimage in Maastricht of all Bonn Deanery. STM Parishioners, 7:30am Cheruskerstr. corner Kennedyallee. See Pilgrimage to Maastricht: May 28, 2011 article.

Bonn Bad-Godesberg. "Tod eines Handlungsreisenden", von Arthur Miller, Kammerspiele Bad Godesberg, Am Michaelshof 9, 19.30Uhr.

Bonn Duisdorf. "Das Zugunglück", von Kerstin Mertenskötter, Tik - Theater im Keller, Rochusstraße 20, 20.20 Uhr.

May 29, 2011 (Sunday)

Bonn - Beuel. "Der Grüffelo", from the picture book if Axel Scheffler and Julia Donaldson, in Deutsche Translation by Alex Scott Fairley and Eric Lomas, Inszenierung: Toby Mitchell, for kids starting 3 years old and above, Junges Theater Bonn, Hermannstraße 50, 15Uhr.

Bonn. "Denk ich an Deutschland", musikalische Reise von Beethoven bis zur Moderne and durch viele Tanzstile, mit drei Bonner Schulklassen und Erwachsenen Laientänzern des Salta Community - dance - Projektes, Opernhaus Bonn, Am Boeselagerhof 1, 18 Uhr.

May 30, 2011 (Monday)

Bonn - Beuel. "Der Grüffelo", from the picture book if Axel Scheffler and Julia Donaldson, Inszenierung: Toby Mitchell, for kids starting 3 years old and above, Junges Theater Bonn, Hermannstraße 50, 10Uhr.

May 31, 2011 (Tuesday)

Birthday of my sister Rochelle Joy. Happy Birthday dear sis! Miss you and love you! ;-)

Bonn Beuel. "Geheime Freunde", von Rudolf Herfurtner nach dem Roman "Der Gelbe Vogel" von Myron Levoy, for kids ages 12 years old and above, Junges Theater Bonn, Hemannstraße 50, 10 Uhr (auch 19.30 Uhr, Wednesday 19.30Uhr)

June 1, 2011 (Wednesday)

Bonn Endenich. "Wo mir sind, is oben!", Kabarett mit Andreas Etienne, Springmaus, Frongasse 8, 20Uhr.

June 28, 2011

Black Eyed Peas Concert in Dusseldorf. See article about it.

Balloon Festival in Bonn: May 27 - 29, 2011

2011-05-24T14:42:00.000-07:00

Image via Wikipedia

Balloon Glow which is the highlight of the Saturday Event.

This year marks the third year of Balloon Festival here in Bonn and 20 teams from all over Germany are expected to participate.

If you're interested to ride in one of those gigantic balloons, you have to make a reservation at 0228 / 9696748 or online booking through Bonn Ticket.

A total of 100 trip tickets are available for the three nights of fun. A festival program is also scheduled in addition to the balloon rides.

Dreamin' of Balloon Ride? Then this is your chance! Image by J. Millan

Program:

May 27, 2011 (Friday)

18.00 Clock: opening of the balloon festival on the big meadow and first use of hot air balloons and airships in the evening sky over Bonn.

Dare to take flight? Image by bugeaters.

May 28, 2011 (Saturday)

11.00 Clock: Family festival with

Balloon Carousel
Balloon on the crane
Walk-in envelope
Bungee Trampoline
Paper Airplane Competition
Model balloons
Crate Climbing
Kinderland Stadtwerke Bonn
Zorbing

16.00 Clock: Ceremony RheinEnergie school Marathon Bonn

18.00 Clock: Start hot air balloons and airships in the evening sky over Bonn

(at the same time) 18.00 Clock: German postal workers Bonn Marathon Party

19.30 Clock: Start of the model balloons

22.00 Clock: Balloon Glow

May 29, 2011 (Sunday)

11.00 Clock: Family festival with

Balloon on the crane
Balloon Carousel
Walk-in envelope
Bungee Trampoline
Paper Airplane Competition
Model balloons
Crate Climbing
Kinderland Stadtwerke Bonn
Zorbing

18.00 Clock: Start hot air balloons, airships and model balloons in the evening sky over Bonn

Take the once in a lifetime experience to see the night sky and whole aerial view of Bonn by booking a place to ride the balloon. Price per person is 175€.

Balloon Glow. Image by maxf

The Balloon Glow on Saturday marks the highlight of the event. Tick it in your calendar at 10pm.

Zorbing. Image by J. Berglund19

Bungee Trampoline. Image by SpindlierHades.

Bonn Remix vs. Wiesbaden Crossovers (elimination)

2011-05-22T15:00:00.000-07:00

At 6:15pm, for the third game on the first day of tournament found the Bonn Remix competing against Wiesbaden Crossovers.

As much as I'd like to comment, unfortunately I have no idea what the issue was at the beginning of this video. It was an easy win with 38:33 in favor of Bonn. This was just the elimination but Bonn Remix faced the Wiesbaden team again in the Semi-Finals. That one was a tough game.

The Championship game: Bonn Remix vs. Frankfurt Thunders

2011-05-21T13:29:00.000-07:00

After two weeks of tweaking in the computer, installing and uninstalling failed softwares, was finally able to edit the videos to desired length as per youtube approval. The only good thing about sleeping only til wee hours in the morning is that I lost weight. ;-)

Bonn Remix vs. Frankfurt Thunders

The line up for the second game was announced. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to write and follow everything. Here are the list of standing of basketball teams minus the 4th to 7th place.

1. Bonn Remix (undefeated)

2. AM Pinoy Cape Town

3. Wiesbaden Crossovers

4. .....7...

8. PAS Switzerland

9. Unlimited Frankfurt

10. Barkada Köln

11. Remix Pitbull

12. Belgium

13. Stuttgart Knights

The first huddle before the championship game.

The jump ball to start off the game.

The video starts off with the calling of all Bonn Remix players. Sad to say, I wasn't able to film the Frankfurt Thunders team. The game was 12 minutes long per half time as compared to ten minutes during the elimination round.

See the truth about Bonn Remix playing better when under pressure. Almost a fight over an "elbow" incident with E. Zulueta and #14 of Frankfurt Thunders. Try replaying it and see for yourself if there was any deliberate act. Leave a comment on what you saw. Watch the last 2 second three point shot of Sherwin Barrientos that made their fate go to overtime with 29 points for each team.

The overtime video. Please forgive the shaky video output during the overtime game. I was low battery and panicking as to where I could plug the cord. Thanks to the wit of Herman Tropel, he was able to see an empty socket at the extension cord of the organizer's table. Due to the short video cord, I have to kneel down and make myself fit in the small space near the table without stepping inside the court line. Tough job to do, huh!

Comment on the controversial foul with 25 seconds left on the clock. When asked, even the Frankfurt Thunder player wasn't even sure if he was really fouled.

The last seconds in the game plus the awarding ceremony. See them wrap it up!

Good sportsmanship right after the game.

After congratulating the other team.

prior to group hug

Time to chill out.

Bonn Remix help naman. What was the award of Torben? Sorry, wasn't able to document it. Leave a comment at the bottom so I could edit it. Thanks.

Nyek? Best Center when he was playing forward.

Pero smile pa rin. ;-p

Best Point Guard. Francis Extra of Frankfurt Thunders.

Wilhelm Krüger of Frankfurt Thunders

Frankfurt Thunders won Best Jersey

Frankfurt Thunders and their trophies.

Waiting to be called for the championship trophy.

MVP pa rin!

Tada! We are the Champion!

It was past 8 pm and yet we were still travelling through the autobahn that last day of game. I remember the reddish hue on the zenith as the last ray of sunset ebbs down. A balmy effect for such stressful and eventful day. Feeling drowsy but replete with contentment for a weekend get away blast.

You like the game? Then please leave a comment. See you all in the next tournament!

Review: The Power Plays

2011-05-21T13:11:00.000-07:00

Image by kulturprojekt21 via Flickr

It was seldom that a play or theater is done in English here in Bonn. When that happens, sure enough, almost all of the English speaking community and expats flock to the theater to have a taste of this elusive treat. This is all thanks to The Bonn Players.

The Bonn Players is an international group based in Bonn, whose purpose is to present high quality English-language theatre. The group has an active membership of around 100 people, representing about 10-15 different nationalities. It was founded in 1980 making this year their 31st in the business. For updated information for their next program, visit them at www.bonnplayers.de.

Yesterday, we have seen the presentation of Power Plays - Two Comedies by Elaine May and Alan Arkin. This is the second time I have seen the group perform, the first one was last year with "The Importance of Being Earnest."

The Way of All Fish by Elaine May

“This is a ping pong power game played between a self-absorbed executive and her seemingly drab secretary. Over an impromptu dinner together, the executive’s condescending graciousness drains away as the secretary explains her fantasy of gaining immortality by killing someone famous and successful—someone like her boss”. (from Samuel French, Inc. Catalog)

What plays out between the two is an example of sharp American humour, enriched with sinister overtones. Miss Riverton makes references to John Wilkes Booth, Charles Manson and Jack The Ripper to explain her definition of notoriety. She even goes to add that the last two did not have to murder anybody famous to achieve this. These remarks obviously unsettle Miss Asquith, and the comedic effect is at its best in the dialogue that ensues between the trembling boss and her "cool" employee. It is the classic juxtaposition - the essence of real comedy. The exchanges are staccato in their delivery, and the black humour is further embellished with comments about New York society.

Reality, however, eventually comes home to roost. Miss Riverton is not a murderer; her real aspirations in life are no different to those of her fellow human beings. She wants to be better paid for her work, for example, so as to enable her to have a lifestyle somewhat approaching that of her employer. She sees herself as a "strong" person, just like the strength of the female fish. She can carry a large number of files up the stairs and do a number of press-ups, but most importantly she is strong in spirit, perhaps the most important strength of all. In the end, it is this that is seen as the defining point in the play.

Virtual Reality by Alan Arkin

Arkin's take begins with two nervous, shady characters meeting to do an always unspecified "job". The two bicker about everything, beginning with how Lefty can "identify himself" when he left all identification at home, and things only get worse from then on. De Recha is the in-the-know leader, demonstrating his brief authority as a stickler for order. Again and again he suggests miming "practice sessions" and then pushing the idea so far toward the edge of absurdity that Lefty rebels.

This play plays with the sheer magic make-believe of theater, calling forth virtual objects and bones of contention, with one sudden, startling addition: sound. When Lefty stumbles on the invisible bundle he put on the floor after taking out of the invisible crate --- there is a clanging of metal as if it fell on the floor! Sound Operator fits their few cues so deftly into the action they add a whole new dimension to the play's "reality"!

All in all, a "four star" for the Bonn Players' triumph...

Brotfabrik is located in Kreuzstrasse 16, Bonn - Beuel. You can take bus 603, 608 and 609 from Bonn Hauptbahnhof with 12 minutes travel time until Doktor - Weis - Platz bus stop.

For more culture program information, see Stadt Bonn Homepage.

Black Eyed Peas in Germany: June 28, 2011

2011-05-18T12:33:00.000-07:00

Cover of Monkey Business (Dig)

The Black Eyed Peas are an American hip hop group, formed in Los Angeles, California in 1995. The group is composed of rapper and multi-instrumentalist will.i.am, rappers apl.de.ap and Taboo, and singer-rapper Fergie. Since the release of their third album, Elephunk, in 2003, the group has sold an estimated 27 million albums worldwide, 20 million singles and 47 million copies with both sales combined.

Black Eyes Peas in Concert. Photo by flickr

The group scored their first worldwide hit with "Where Is the Love?" in 2003, which topped over ten charts worldwide. Another single was the European hit "Shut Up". Their next album, Monkey Business was also a worldwide hit, certified 4× Platinum in the U.S., and spawning two hit singles, "My Humps" and "Don't Phunk with My Heart".

Photo by nicogenin

Pinoy in Black Eyed Peas

Apl.de.ap was born in Sapang Bato, Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines, to a Filipino mother and an African-American father. His father, a U.S. airman stationed at Clark Air Base, abandoned the family shortly after his birth; his mother, Cristina Pineda, raised him and his six younger siblings as a single mother.

As a child, apl.de.ap would make an hour-long jeepney trip to and from school, and helped his family subsist by farming sweet potatoes, corn, sugar cane and rice. The Pearl S. Buck Foundation, an organization that finds healthier living environments for young abandoned or orphaned Amerasian children, matched him with a sponsor named Joe Ben Hudgens through a dollar-a-day program. He initially came to the United States at the age of 11 to treat nystagmus, an involuntary movement of the eyes. During a trip to Disneyland, Apl expressed his interest in staying in the United States. It would take another three years for Hudgens to officially adopt him, but at fourteen he moved permanently to the United States to live with Hudgens.

In Los Angeles, he attended John Marshall High School where he befriended William Adams (stage name will.i.am), the nephew of Hudgens' roommate. He went to college at Holy Angel University. Apl.de.ap's early musical influences were Stevie Wonder, The Eagles, The Beatles, A Tribe Called Quest, De La Soul, Leaders of the New School and the popular Filipino rock/folk group, Asin. Apl was introduced to hip-hop by break dancing. "I would take the jeepney all the way to Angeles City, and that's how I got introduced to break dancing," he said. "I would see kids at the corner break-dancing and I'm like, 'I wanna do that.'"

He revealed to People Magazine in 2011 that he is legally blind in both of his eyes, suffering from nystagmus and has this condition his entire career. "I'm good at shapes. If I'm not close, even if it's big, I can't read it. I doubted myself for a long time," apl.de.ap said. "I'm comfortable not using my vision. I weave around my problems." He went on to say in the same article that "Until I discovered hip-hop, I felt I wasn't going to accomplish anything."

Fergie. Photo by A. Cardoso

Two of his siblings are dead: his younger brother Arnel committed suicide (this is referenced in The Apl Song in the lines "I guess sometimes life's stresses get you down/Oh brother, wish I could have helped you out"). His youngest brother, Joven Pineda Deala, was murdered at the age of 22 in February 2009 in Porac, Pampanga.

Apl.de.ap and Fergie peforming. Photo by A. Cardoso

Upcoming Concert in Germany

Where: Dusseldorf, Germany

When: June 28, 2011

Where: Esprit Arena, Dusseldorf, Germany

Buy your tickets online or visit the nearest Mr. Musik store near you. See you there!

Flohmarkt (Flea Market) in Rheinaue

2011-05-16T15:45:00.000-07:00

A view of the flea market in Rheinaue Bonn with the notable Post Tower as background.

April marks the start of fleamarket (Flohmarkt or Trödelmarkt) here in Germany. From a small Sunday flea market to the biggest of all, the flea market in Rheinaue, Bonn. This happens every third Saturday of the months of April to October.

A flea market or swap meet is a type of bazaar where inexpensive or secondhand goods are sold or bartered. It may be indoors, such as in a warehouse or school gymnasium; or it may be outdoors, such as in a field or under a tent. The flea-market vendors may range from a family that is renting a table for the first time to sell a few unwanted household items to a commercial operation including a large variety of new or used merchandise, including scouts who rove the region buying items for sale from garage sales and other flea markets, and several staff watching the stalls.

Food stalls line the front part of Rheinaue going to the flea market.

Always present is the Chinese Noodles stall.

Ludwig - Erhard Allee

Many flea markets have food vendors who sell snacks and drinks to the patrons, and may be associated with carnivals or concerts. Some flea market vendors have been targeted by law enforcement efforts to halt the sale of bootleg movies and music or knockoff brand clothing, accessories, or fragrances.

You should be early to arrive if you want to have a parking space.

To be safe, just take the bus so there will be no parking problem.

Welcome to Rheinaue!

Flea market vending, though similar in structure, should not be compared with street vending. The correlation between the two, though existent, is not exact. Flea market vending, as we know it, presents distinct elements setting it apart from street vending. Street vending takes place where a large crowd gathers and relies specifically on impulse buyers to be present, but who are in the area at the time for underlying reasons. The flea market, however, is the arena and the vendors are the show that attracts the crowds that gather for the sole purpose of buying. Flea market vending is also set in a controlled area that is governed by a self-imposed code of conduct. Unlike flea market vendors, and more often than not, street vendors do not knowingly recognize a code of conduct.

Very German: Currywurst with pommes (Curry Sausage with fries).

A Turkish addition but was a favorite in Berlin: Döner Kebap (Shawarma),

A Latin America Specialty: Churros!

Different Terms for Flea Market

Different English-speaking countries use varying names for flea markets. In Australian English, they are called trash and treasure markets, trash and trivia or (more commonly)swap meets. In the Philippine English, the word is tiangge, believed to be a loanword from the Hokkien spoken by Chinese Filipino migrants, or possibly from Nahuatl tianguis via Mexican Spanish. In India it is known as "Gurjari" or "Shrukawadi Bazzar". And here in Germany, "flohmarkt".

This is one of my favorites: Reibekuchen.

Flea market stalls and kid rides line side by side.

The whole walking area of Rheinaue is being visited by patrons both young and old.

Cherry blossoms and high above, a plane trailing an ads (plane not visible)

Some vendors went as far as making a clothes line to showcase their wares.

Not everyone who comes to the flea market buys. Some just want to enjoy the sun and the food.

History of Flea Market

The origins of the term are disputed, but according to one theory the Fly Market in 18th century New York City began the association. The Dutch word Vlaie, or vlie, with the v being pronounced f, meaning a swamp or valley, was located at Maiden Lane near the East River in Manhattan. The land on which the market stood was originally a salt marsh with a brook. By the early 1800's the "Fly Market" was the principal market in New York City.

With its surface of 160 hectares - 125 hectares on the left bank of the Rhine and 35 hectares on the right - it nearly measures up to the size of downtown Bonn.

A network of footpaths with a total length of almost 45 kilometres sprawls across the park.

The terrain is located in the geographic heart of Bonn together with the CAESAR research centre and the Post Tower.

Since its creation for the National Horticultural Show in 1979, the Recreation and Leisure Park has become a landmark of the City and a very popular recreational area.

Bargained goods are labeled for sell at 0.50cents.

Selling becomes a family outing as well.

Cherry blossoms makes the pathway more attractive.

A novelty in the execution of the biggest landscaping project of its time in the Federal Republic was the absence of fences in order to enable the citizens to use the recreation area from the very beginning.

Even the old china ware are being sold off.

Collection of cook books can be sold for 3€.

The park was split in three zones: the strip of flood plain along the bank of the Rhine, a zone with clusters of trees and a mixed area with vantage points in the transition zone towards the city.

Even antique collections can be bargained off. Make sure you just know how to haggle.

Instead of throwing old toys of the kids, you can bring them here and sell them as well.

This is the version of Pinas ukay-ukay.

LP's can be bought as well.

Knick knacks and old books find their way here.

If you have a new place to decorate, you can start off small by picking various stuff from loads of displays.

Not everything sold here is second hand. Even brand new and hand made jewelries abound.

This hand made wood products does not come cheap for its a rarity here.

Furnitures with character are easy to find if you are early.

Don't throw away those old shoes!

Historical pieces of course have a price.

Shot from the upper hill.

I love this vintage ceramic sink! Plan to buy one in the future.

Mannequins, bears and dolls.

They even have their own puppet hospital here to sew and mend the old ones.

If you're not picky, you can buy second hand clothes for as low as 5€.

Shells are a novelty for the collectors.

Since they don't have much seashore to speak off, they love the conch shells.

Artistry at its best.

Date anyone?

The area is very accessible as it is on the main road of Ludwig -Erhard Allee.

Toy car collector? Then bargain away!

Game boards, puzzles are part of the German family past time.

DVD's both old and new are accessible.

Very organized parking areas.

Bus stop going to Bonn Main Station. Very accessible for you can take either 610 or 611 bus.

Rheinaue is set up in a very picturesque hillside of Rhine.

Bonn Remix vs. Big Phillies

2011-05-16T06:21:00.000-07:00

Big Phillies is a team from Bielefeld. Bielefeld is an independent city that is the largest city of the Ostwestfalen-Lippe Region. The city is situated below a pass separating the Northern and Southern Teutoburg Forest. The centre of Bielefeld is situated on the eastern side of the Teutoburg Forest, but the modern city incorporates boroughs on the opposite side and on the hilltops.

This is the last game on the first day of tournament (April 30, 2011). My apologies for the quality of the video. My video camera has low battery thus I have no option but to use my digital camera video features. Sad to say its upto par for I was tweaking with the iso while filming. Since the digital camera was designed for youtube uploading, it will auto shutdown every 10 minutes so you will notice some scenes jumping to a new one. Thats my editing. I taped all scenes together to make just two uploads.

A hearty breakfast before the second day game.

Before I delete this in my hard drive, let me share this video first even if majority of it is blurred. Hey, some might appreciate it. ;-)

First day, waiting for the next game.

Semi Finals: Bonn Remix vs. Wiesbaden

2011-05-15T13:46:00.000-07:00

Wiesbaden is a city in southwest Germany and the capital of the federal sate of Hesse. It has about 275,400 inhabitants, plus approximately 10,000 United States citizens (mostly associated with the American military). Wiesbaden, together with the cities of Frankfurt am Main and Mainz, is part of the Frankfurt Rhine Main Region, a metropolitan area with a combined population of about 5.8 million people.

The Wiesbaden basketball team had proved time and again to be a fearsome opponent for this is not the first time they have played against Bonn Remix. It was quite a very suspenseful game with overtime and bad calls from the referees.

All smiles after the big win.

Semi-finals with Wiesbaden Crossover. Sherwin Barrientos, Ariel Santos, Edgar Flores, Torben Barrientos and Eric Zulueta making up the first five players.

Neck to neck game of both teams. Either win or go home.

Overtime game of Bonn Remix and Wiesbaden Crossover. Two minutes with first minute running time and second minute stop time.

Aaron Salangsang (Jersey #13) making a rebound at the last 40 seconds and Edgar Flores (Jersey #11) doing a nice 2 point shot at the last 32 seconds. Last 7 seconds with Torben Barrientos (Jersey #4) making 1 penalty shot thus sealing Bonn Remix' journey to the Finals with 23:21 win.